Harrelson’s Killer Performance Steals the Show

Read Time:3 Minute, 35 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Man from Toronto
–

Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy
Year Released: 2022, 2023 Blu-ray from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Patrick Hughes
Writer(s): Robbie Fox, Chris Bremmer
Cast: Kevin Hart, Woody Harrelson, Kaley Cuoco, Jasmine Mathews, Lela Loren, Pierson Fodé, Jencarlos Canela, Ellen Barkin
Where To Watch: available now on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment; order here www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: THE MAN FROM TORONTO comes swinging onto our screens, twirling a fascinating cocktail of laughter and action with a pinch of danger, despite tripping over some cinematic potholes. Kevin Hart takes the helm as Teddy Jackson, an enterprising dreamer whose grand visions often land him in hot water, and this time, it's scalding. In a comedy mishap of significant proportions, Teddy is mistaken for a notorious hitman, aka "The Man from Toronto," catapulting him into a world teeming with bloodthirsty mercenaries, persistent FBI agents, and a disgruntled handler who's keen on recouping an investment.

Woody Harrelson dons the mantle of the genuine hitman, forced to play an unexpected duo with Hart's Teddy in this dangerous farce. Under Patrick Hughes' direction, THE MAN FROM TORONTO takes us on a frenetic adventure, augmented by a robust supporting cast. The film's cast is a constellation of talent, boasting the likes of Kaley Cuoco, Jasmine Mathews, Lela Loren, Pierson Fode, Jencarlos Canela, and Ellen Barkin.

However, there was a noticeable narrative detour due to a behind-the-scenes conflict. Initially, Jason Statham was set to portray the hitman, but creative differences regarding the film's rating led to his exit and a consequential ripple in the film's dynamics. Also leading to rewrites, giving the film a noticeable mixed feeling that lands as a great comedy at times, and an action film

Among the film's shining moments is Harrelson's compelling portrayal of the hitman, a role he imbues with authenticity, thanks to a surprising personal link – his father's profession as a contract killer (Charles Voyde Harrelson was an American contract killer and organized crime figure who was convicted of assassinating federal judge.)

Teddy, played by Hart, serves as a perfect foil to Harrelson's deadly character, representing the quintessential underdog thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The ensuing comedy of errors, kick-started by Teddy mistakenly booking the hitman's cabin, is a comic whirlwind of mistaken identities and unexpected danger.

Following Statham's departure, the film underwent a genre metamorphosis, moving from a planned "buddy" action film to a pure action-comedy. While Hart and Harrelson have firmly planted their flags in the industry, THE MAN FROM TORONTO could have benefited from a more precise genre commitment, whether pure comedy or unfiltered action.

Despite the endless optimism Teddy carries in his numerous failed ventures, such as his ineffectual exercise gear, his character often needs to catch up on the consistency required for that type of character. Harrelson's humorous spin on the otherwise grim role of the hitman does, however, provide welcome comic relief and enjoyable moments throughout the film. While commendable, Hart and Harrelson's efforts are somewhat undermined by the script's lack of magnetic pull. The storyline could have resonated more with stronger character arcs and engaging dialogue rather than an assemblage of disjointed scenes.

A minor printer snafu catalyzes the plot, leading Teddy to the wrong cabin and setting off unexpected revelations. However, with a nearly two-hour runtime, THE MAN FROM TORONTO risks overextending its narrative. A 90-minute duration could have provided a tighter, more focused exploration of its unique premise. Yet, despite its missteps, THE MAN FROM TORONTO serves a decent helping of entertainment, delivering laughs within a storm of action.

#ManFromToronto

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[photo courtesy of SONY PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT]